When we hear about metabolism, we automatically think of issues related to the consumption of energy reserves and being overweight. The truth is that it is much more complex than that.
Metabolism is very broad and encompasses numerous chemical reactions that occur in our organism to acquire and use the energy we need in numerous functions, since every living organism requires the generation and consumption of constant energy to keep its cellular structures in order, which is what allows it to remain alive.
Types of Metabolism according to your Genetics
The metabolism, can be classified according to individual genetics, influencing how our body processes nutrients and uses energy. This leads to a better understanding of the types of metabolism and how they affect our health and well-being.
Anabolism and Catabolism: Metabolism division
The metabolism, is grouped in two categories main:
- Catabolism: It aims to generate energy by breaking down complex molecules into simpler molecules. This process releases energy that the body can use immediately.
- Anabolism: Consumes energy to synthesize complex molecules from simple molecules, such as the formation of proteins from amino acids.
Both processes are divided into metabolic pathways. A metabolic pathway is a series of ordered and chained chemical reactions that work together to achieve a specific end.
Some important metabolic pathways
Beta Oxidation of Fatty Acids
Among the main metabolic pathways, we want to highlight the beta-oxidation of fatty acids, which helps to understand how genetic variants influence your results in ADNTRO's "Watch your line" guide (Metabolism).
Beta oxidation is the process by which fatty acids are degraded, ending the electron transport chain and obtaining energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), a highly energetic molecule that enables vital processes such as muscle contraction. This process occurs in the mitochondria, the cell organelles responsible for supplying most of the energy necessary for cellular activity.
Thermogenesis and the UCP gene
The proton gradient generated in the electron transport chain can be "diverted" to generate heat instead of energy, in a process known as thermogenesis. This process increases the temperature of metabolism through metabolic reactions.
Thermogenesis is mediated by a gene called UCP. (Uncoupling Protein), which is involved in lipid metabolism and heat production through mitochondrial uncoupling. This uncoupling releases energy in the form of heat, preventing ATP synthesis and increasing fatty acid degradation. UCP protein,also known as thermogenin, is a biochemical and molecular marker of brown adipose tissue.
Importance of Brown Adipose Tissue
Brown adipose tissue (BAT) may be key to addressing obesity by activating thermogenesis. This type of fat produces heat to maintain body temperature in cold conditions and contains many more mitochondria than white fat.
Genetic Impact on Metabolism
If your results indicate a slow metabolism, it may mean that your genetic variants associated with the UCP gene do not favor the uncoupling of the proton gradient in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, resulting in a lower consumption of fatty acids.
To explore more about how genetics affect your metabolism and discover strategies to improve your metabolic health, remember you can do so with the DNA TEST of ADNTRO.
Metabolism is a complex and vital process that goes beyond simple energy consumption. Understanding the different types of metabolism and how they are influenced by our genetics can give us a deeper insight into how our body works and how we can optimize our health.
By exploring metabolic pathways such as beta oxidation and thermogenesis, and considering the impact of brown adipose tissue, we can find more effective ways to manage our weight and overall well-being.
